PRESS RELEASE: Statement from Wilmington City Council on the passing of former Wilmington Mayor Michael S. Purzycki
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Statement from Wilmington City Council on the passing of former Wilmington Mayor Michael S. Purzycki
Mayor Michael S. Purzycki gives remarks during a ceremonial street sub-naming of “Maurice Pritchett Way”, for the late Educator and Hall of Fame Athlete Maurice Pritchett, on Friday, July 21, 2023; at a portion of East 7th Street near the new Bancroft School in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras, Director of Communications for Wilmington City Council.
Wilmington, DE – Wilmington City Council issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Wilmington Mayor Michael S. Purzycki:
“Today, the City of Wilmington mourns the passing of former Mayor Michael S. Purzycki, a longtime public servant whose leadership and vision helped shape Wilmington through decades of transformation and progress.
Mayor Purzycki devoted much of his career to the City of Wilmington and the State of Delaware. From his early years serving on New Castle County Council to his leadership as Executive Director of the Riverfront Development Corporation (RDC), he played a significant role in helping redefine Wilmington’s future. Under his direction with the RDC, the Christina Riverfront evolved from an abandoned industrial area into a destination for economic development, housing, recreation, dining, and tourism, creating lasting opportunities for the City and region.
In 2016, he was elected Mayor of Wilmington and re-elected in 2020. Throughout his time in office, Mayor Purzycki focused on economic growth, neighborhood revitalization, infrastructure improvements, housing investment, and public safety initiatives. His administration led the City through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing efforts to strengthen Wilmington’s neighborhoods and expand investment.
Mayor Purzycki also prioritized community redevelopment efforts, including the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to support affordable housing initiatives, demolition of blighted properties, home repairs, and neighborhood stabilization projects on Wilmington’s East Side. He believed strongly in continued investment in Wilmington’s communities and often spoke about creating a City that was safe, welcoming, and positioned for future growth.
During his final months in office, Mayor Purzycki reflected on Wilmington’s progress with pride, pointing to major economic development projects, improved City finances, infrastructure investments, affordable housing initiatives, and revitalized public spaces as signs of a City continuing to move forward. He often emphasized that while there would always be more work to do, Wilmington’s future remained bright because of the resilience and strength of its residents.
Wilmington City Council President Trippi Congo reflected on Mayor Purzycki’s lasting impact on the City, stating:
‘Mike’s legacy in Wilmington is undeniable. His vision helped position Wilmington as a destination city and transformed how people viewed the future of our community. His leadership, influence, and ability to build meaningful partnerships also helped elevate HBCU Week into a nationally recognized initiative that awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to hundreds of Wilmington students, helping change the trajectory of countless young people and families for generations to come.’
Wilmington City Council extends its deepest condolences to his wife Bette, his children, family members, friends, former colleagues, and all those mourning his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the many residents, community leaders, and City employees whose lives were touched by his decades of leadership and service.
Today, Wilmington reflects on the life and legacy of a public servant who helped guide the City through an important chapter in its history. His contributions and impact on Wilmington will not be forgotten.”
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MEDIA CONTACT:Yesenia TaverasDirector of Communications, Wilmington City CouncilOffice: (302)576-2585
Mobile: (302)757-5748Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.govCity Council Website: www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com